Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer for women. It is suggested for women to have routine screenings and mammograms to test for breast cancer. If it is diagnosed soon, it is more likely the patient will survive. There usually is little to no pain involved with the early stages of breast cancer.
Women can detect early signs of cancer by noticing anything abnormal. If you notice any changes in the breasts or itchiness tell a medical professional right away. A lump on the breast can be a result of a tumor, but it can also be benign. A cysts and fibroids are generally benign as well, but they can determine that with an ultrasound.
It is recommended that women aged 20-39 have a clinical exam every 3 years. Women over 40 should have one every year. The 2 kinds of mammograms that exist are screening and diagnostic. Screening allows doctors to catch early signs of cancer to prevent. The diagnostic test allows the doctor to learn more about breast masses or lumps that were discovered.
Tiny deposits of calcium may calcify the breasts and this can be found with the mammogram. DCIS and BRCA1 can also be found during mammogram exams. A biopsy may be the next step. A biopsy allows doctors to examine tissue from the breast. A mastectomy is a common treatment for breast cancer. Though quite painful, mastectomy can also be done to prevent breast cancer in patients that are considered high risk. Digital image mammograms are the most recent advancement.

If you are a woman over the age of 40, you will need to have a mammogram taken on your breasts to detect for any lumps that could possibly be cancerous and lead to cancer. Before visiting the doctor, you should be able to conduct a breast self exam to detect for any lumps early on. If you find you have one or have a family history of breast cancer, you will need to schedule an appointment with a doctor at their office for a mammogram. Early detection is the best way to prevent any possible cancer from spreading and receiving an x-ray image of the breasts can find any shadows, inflammatory breast tissue, calcification, precancerous lumps, and any signs of cancer. You and your physician will go over the results together after the x-rays have been performed and will discuss procedures of treatment if any cancerous signs have been found.